What initially was described as a “coach’s decision” could be the end of the line for one Boston University men’s hockey player.
Nick Roberto, a 21-year-old junior from Wakefield, Mass., will not play again for the Terriers this season, BU confirmed in a statement. Roberto was suspended as a result of a university investigation into gambling activity within the program, College Hockey News first reported Monday and WEEI.com later confirmed.
“Beyond confirming that Mr. Roberto will not play for the Boston University hockey team this season, federal privacy laws prevent us from discussing his status,” BU said in a statement to College Hockey News.
“However, we can say that several months ago, we heard rumors that a BU hockey player had engaged in gambling. Although the rumors did not involve gambling on either college or professional hockey games, we nonetheless immediately conducted a thorough investigation and turned the results over to the appropriate authorities at the NCAA. Based on that investigation, the NCAA made its own findings and took remedial action, and we would refer you to that organization for further information.”
WEEI.com cited sources in reporting Roberto bet on sports but not BU hockey. Betting on sports of any kind is against NCAA rules and carries a minimum punishment of a one-year suspension.
BU coach David Quinn previously had explained the absence of Roberto, who has not suited up in the 2015-16 campaign, as a coach’s decision. Roberto notched four goals and eight assists last season for the Terriers, who fell 4-3 to Providence in the NCAA Frozen Four Final.
Thumbnail photo via Winslow Townson/USA TODAY Sports Images
